16 DAY | Russian Revelations
EERSTG-7
This tour visits: Estonia, Russia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Germany
Come explore this glorious part of Europe on a tour of Russia and beyond that
will reveal some of the region's best-kept travel secrets! From gorgeous St
Petersburg and magnificent Moscow, via some of the hottest destinations in
Eastern Europe to our finish amidst the bustle of modern Berlin. On this
revelatory tour of Russia you'll be more than just a spectator as you witness
Russian life, learn the incredible history, experience the rich culture, marvel at
its varied landscapes and indulge in its vibrant nightlife!
The Bucket List
More Inclusions
Russian guide travelling with the group for 8 days through
15 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 8 dinners
Russia
6 nights in hostels & 9 nights in hotels
Entrance and guided tour to the Hermitage museum and
Modern air conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi
Kremlin
Guided tours of all major cities
Metro & Kremlin tours, Moscow
Awesome Trip Leader + Driver
Farewell dinner in Berlin
Walking tour of Riga
Guided tour of Warsaw
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 - Tallinn
Meet with the group today and get ready for the ultimate Russian adventure and more. Pro tip: Old Town is where you'll get the best kind of
Estonian #throwback vibes.
Day 2 - Tallinn to St. Petersburg, Russia
Cross the border to Russia for a tour of the country’s former capital. Later, find some blini and caviar (yes, caviar) washed down with a shot of
vodka, if you wish. When in Rome...
Meals:
-Breakfast
-Lunch
-Dinner
Day 3 - St. Petersburg
Enter Russia: a land of 11 time zones and an epic history. Luckily, we have a local guide to start us off on the right foot. Anything called the
Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood has got to be worth a look (and it really is). You'll see it on today's driving tour. And the bucket list
items. So. Many. Things. You won't be bored in St Petersburg.
Included today:
-Guide tour of St Petersburg with local guide
Meals:
-Breakfast
Day 4 - St. Petersburg
Dig into breakfast with your pinkies raised. You're going on a guided tour of the Hermitage Museum that spans six palatial buildings,
including the epic Winter Palace. Ah-maze! You won’t want to miss this.Next: (window) shopping, chowing and grooving your way down
Nevsky Prospect, the capital's main street.
Included today:
-Hermitage Museum tour
Meals:
-Breakfast
Day 5 - St. Petersburg to Novgorod
Through the Russian countryside to the World Heritage-listed city Novgorod. Try: Medovukha, the Russian version of mead.
Included today:
-Walking tour of Novgorod
Meals:
-Breakfast
-Lunch
-Dinner
Day 6 - Novgorod to Moscow
Roll into Moscow today where the city is alive in rain hail or shine. Believe it or not, Moscow sparkles so be prepared for an incredible few
days ahead. As you move through the city, spot the tangible reminders of Russia’s involvement in modern history.
Meals:
-Breakfast
-Lunch
-Dinner
Day 7 - Moscow
March through the greats on today's tour, including the Moscow University, Red Square and St Basil's Cathedral (aka the capital's technicolor
sandcastle). Explore the Kremlin with our local guide before setting off to roam the streets. Tonight: get fancy with an optional evening at the
Russian ballet. Binoculars at the ready and clink that champagne. Oh la la!
Included today:
-Driving tour of Moscow
-Visit the Kremlin
Meals:
-Breakfast
Optional activities:
-Visit the Russian Ballet
Day 8 - Moscow
Down we go for a guided tour of the not-so-mundane Moscow Metro. If you are picturing the piccadilly or central line in London nope, think
again. Not even close. Think: chandelier lined stations with each one more decadent than the last. Next: visit Lenin's tomb. Keep the history
lesson going with an optional guided Kremlin Armory tour. The Russian capital's been known set the stage for nights to remember. Home of
vodka, remember?
Included today:
-Metro underground art tour
-Visit to Lenin’s tomb
Meals:
-Breakfast
Optional activity:
-Guided Armoury tour
Day 9 - Moscow to Velikiye Luki
Overnight stay in Velikie Luki, also known as “Small Stalingrad”.
Meals:
-Breakfast
-Lunch
-Dinner
Day 10 - Velikiye Luki to Riga, Latvia
Cross the border into Latvia. Riga's up next, another World Heritage star in an already star-studded Baltic line-up. Late medieval sights and
lots of art nouveau awaits on today's guided walking tour. Key highlights: Power Tower, Freedom Monument and Riga Cathedral. Oh, and the
impressive House of Blackheads building, but more on that later. Tonight's recommendation? Get quaint in the Old Town district.
Included today:
-Walking tour of Riga
Meals:
-Breakfast
-Dinner
Day 11 - Riga
Today = a free day, so take your chance to explore Latvia’s capital with its museums and concert halls, known for its wooden buildings,
medieval Old Town and art nouveau architecture. Set on the Baltic Sea at the mouth of the River Daugava, Riga offers a wide range of water
activities, from canal boat tours to beach swimming. Tonight, hit up the town’s cellar bars.
Meals:
-Breakfast
Day 12 - Riga to Vilnius, Lithuania
To the capital of Lithuania to check out the Old Town. Next stop on the Baltic boulevard of fame is Lithuania's Vilnius. Home to Europe's
largest baroque old town and the world's only statue of Frank Zappa, but the connection escapes us. Let us know if you find it. The walking
tour covers the Town Hall, Gediminas Tower and Vilnius Cathedral. Pro tip: keep an eye out for the Gate of Dawn and St Anne's Church.
Tonight: let your feet take you to a local spot for dinner.
Included today:
-Visit the Hill of Crosses
-Walking tour of Vilnius
Meals:
-Breakfast
Day 13 - Vilnius to Warsaw, Poland
Modern day Warsaw is a far cry from its war-torn past. Street art, picturesque lakes and epic street food is just the beginning. Start in the Old
Jewish Ghetto and Pawiak Prison then free time to explore.
Meals:
-Breakfast
-Dinner
Day 14 - Warsaw
Today:: free time to continue the exploration or eat your way through Poland's notorious baked goods.
Included today:
-Guided tour of Warsaw
Meals:
-Breakfast
Day 15 - Warsaw to Berlin, Germany
Return to the scene of the crime, Topdeckers: we're heading back to Berlin. See the scattered remnants of the Berlin Wall that physically
separated the city for over 25 years. Tonight: reminisce over a group dinner.
Meals:
-Breakfast
-Dinner
Day 16 - Berlin
Sad farewells as we defect after breakfast. Swap numbers and plan that next adventure together.
Meals:
-Breakfast
Accommodation
Hostel Plus* trips host our most eclectic types of accommodation. While modern hostels make up the majority of your overnighters you
could also stay in hotels (free upgrade – yeah!) or bungalows.
The ‘More Inclusions’ section details what type of accommodation will be used for overnight stops on your trip.
The number of people to a room on Hostel Plus trips will vary. For hostels you will have multi-share rooms and share with between 3 and 5
others while in hotels there will be twin or triple-shares (and the odd quad-room). Bungalows can be up to 4 people to a room.
Please note: When staying on a Hostel Plus trip, multi-share accommodation follows a single-sex policy.
*New name, same great experience - From May 2016 we're renaming our Trip Style Club to Hostel Plus. Travellers will enjoy the same great
experience, just under a new name.
Optional Activities
On all trips we have arranged extra activities that we think will enhance your travel experience, but you have a choice as to whether or not
you will participate. These are not included in the cost of your trip. They are usually organised on a group participation basis and should be
taken into consideration when budgeting your spending money.
None of the Optional Activities on your trip are operated by Topdeck, nor do they form part of your contract with Topdeck for your trip.
Topdeck arranges the activity as an agent of the local supplier. Should you participate in any Optional Activities your contract will be with the
local supplier and their conditions will apply.
Please note: while we make every effort to keep these prices as accurate and up-to-date as possible, they are subject to change and in rare
circumstances the actual price may vary slightly to what is published here.
Germany - Berlin
Third Reich walking tour €10
Berlin Alternative Night tour €18
Russia - Moscow
Ballet from €70
Guided tour of the armoury
Meals
Included Meals
Your included meals are detailed in the 'More Inclusions' section of this document.
Breakfasts are included every day (except on the first morning). Included meals will be a combination of those prepared by Topdeck On-Site
Chefs, local restaurants and places in which we stay.
If you have any dietary requirements we will make every effort to cater to your specific needs as long as you advise your travel agent or
Topdeck Trip Consultant when you book, or make note of this in the Topdeck app when you check in (refer below). But please be aware that
although we will do everything in our power to arrange it, we cannot guarantee that every restaurant we use will be able to cater to all
dietary needs, particularly in Eastern Europe. We also cannot cater for tastes or dislikes, as most of our included evening meals feature a set
menu.
No Tip Necessary
Your Topdeck crew never expect tips themselves and will not ask for any; that’s not what friends do! We also know how much tipping can
cost you. So go ahead, spoil yourself with the money you will save by travelling with Topdeck (just don’t forget Mum’s souvenir).
Topdeck Travel App
Our travel app has landed! With a range of awesome features including a Currency Converter, Budget Tracker, Check-In tool and Social
Timeline you can plan your trip like a pro. Think of it like your very own Topdeck Trip Leader, always on call with the latest info, weather,
maps and city guides to give you the trip of a lifetime, all in the palm of your hand.
Please note: The Topdeck Travel App should only be downloaded once you have booked onto your trip. You will not be able to log in unless
you have a Topdeck Booking Reference Number.
Get it for iPhone
Get it for Android
Other Information
Finances
Changing Money
ATMs/cashpoints are available all over Europe and are the safest and easiest way to access money. Major credit cards are also accepted and
we recommend you bring yours along in case you see something special that you hadn't budgeted for.
Some nationals may have access to pre-paid cards that you can use at any ATM just like a debit card that you may want to consider as a
viable alternative or addition to your bank card.
We recommend that you change approximately €100 in cash before departure and approximately 30 Swiss francs (if your trip goes through
Switzerland). This will cover you for spending money until you have the chance to change more or find an ATM on the ground.
Please note credit cards cannot be used to pay for Optional Activities.
Spending Money
Based on experience, we recommend at least €50 – €60 per day. This is to cover daily expenses including sightseeing, small souvenir
shopping and non-included meals.
Remember, this is a rough figure only and spending habits vary greatly between individuals according to their budget and habits!
Tipping
Although you may not be accustomed to tipping at home, in many European countries it is customary. In some countries a service charge
may be added to your bill, in other countries it is usual to round the bill up to the nearest Euro or to leave an additional amount of between
5% and 10%. Your Trip Leader will be able to advise you further on the tipping customs in the countries you visit.
Topdeck Top Tip: it is a really good idea to hide away somewhere a small amount of cash and/or extra card; this will really come in handy in
the unlikely event that you lose your wallet or any other kind of emergency.
European Currencies
While the predominant currency throughout Europe is the euro (€), there are still many European countries that sit outside the Eurozone for
which you will need to use local currency (or rely on your credit/debit cards). It is generally always possible to exchange money into local
currency after arriving in the country, but the easiest way is to make a withdrawal from a local ATM/cashpoint.
Below is a list of all the other currencies you will use on your trip:
Russia - Rubles (RUB)
Poland - Zloty (PLN)
Insurance
It is compulsory for all passengers to take out comprehensive travel insurance before the trip departs covering cancellation, medical
expenses including repatriation, loss or damage to baggage and personal belongings, money and personal liability.
For more information go to www.topdeck.travel/travel-insurance.
You must bring a copy of your travel insurance policy with you on the trip. Details of your policy must be uploaded into the Topdeck app
before your trips departs, otherwise they will be requested by your Trip Leader on Day One
Passports and Visas
Please make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after the last day of your trip. Some countries will refuse entry if there is not at
least six months validity remaining on your passport after your departure date from their country. Depending on your nationality, you may
require a visa to enter certain countries.
It is your responsibility to obtain these prior to the departure of this trip. You can consult the government websites of the countries in which
you will be travelling or your own government’s website to determine which visas you will require. We also have a visa chart on our website
listing the visas required by some nationalities travelling on our trips. To check go to www.topdeck.travel/visas.
Remember that some visas can take up to six weeks to acquire, so don’t leave it until the last minute. Also bear in mind that the validity of
the visa often runs from the date of issue rather than date of entry into the country. Please check with the appropriate embassies prior to
departure as requirements do change periodically.
Transport
Coach Time
We try to spend as little time on the coach as possible so that you have more time to enjoy the places you visit. But do please remember that
Europe is a large continent and it takes time to get around!
On driving days between cities you will be on the coach during the day, stopping off to visit places of interest where possible. Strict driving
rules apply in Europe that limit the maximum number of hours your Driver can drive each day. They also limit the maximum number of days
that can be driven before a day off must be taken. We have worked hard to make sure this does not affect your trip, but in some cities it
means we will use public transport while your Driver has a well-earned rest day. The cost for this is included in your trip price and your Trip
Leader will show you how to get around town as the locals do!
Please note: this doesn't cover your own local transport while in a city, only when the coach is not in operation
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for all passengers in Europe, this includes both coach and sailing trips. For more information about our Wi-Fi allowance
and availability per country, please head to our website www.topdeck.travel/wi-fi.
Please note: Wi-Fi charges are subject to change. If you feel necessary, please enquire with us to ensure your particular coach has Wi-Fi
availability.
Health and Safety
We want to make sure you’re having the time of your life while travelling with us. Therefore, if you suffer from any kind of medical condition
or allergies, we will need to know at the time of booking, or at least six weeks prior to the departure of your trip.
If you require regular medication, you must have a sufficient supply before your trip departs, as it may be difficult to obtain while travelling.
You must be able to administer your own medication, as Topdeck Road Crew will not be able to administer it, and there are no guarantees
that there will be anyone with first aid training on board.
Vaccinations
There are currently no compulsory vaccinations required for any of the countries this trip visits. Please reconfirm this with your GP or health
professional before you leave as conditions can change.
General Information
Public toilets
In most European countries you can expect to pay a small amount to use public toilets at service stations and in city centres. It is a common
practice in Europe and should be regarded as a form of ‘tipping’, as the money goes to the people who clean and/or maintain the facilities. It
is very rare that public toilets do not supply toilet paper, but it may be useful to carry a pack of tissues with you.
Power
All European countries (with the sole exception of the United Kingdom) use a CEE7/16 standard round, two-prong plug and a single adaptor
will work in all countries.
Voltage
Throughout Europe the voltage is a uniform 220v. If the voltage is the same or similar in your home country your appliance will comply. If
you have a 110v appliance you will need to use a transformer to avoid damaging your appliance.
In Cases of Emergency
While we hope you never have to use it, if for any reason you need to contact someone from Topdeck, whether it be that you have missed a
trip departure meeting, have become separated from your trip on the road or any other unforeseeable problem, the following options are
available to you.
Emergency Contact
Our Customer Service team is on hand 24/7 to help*
Please call 1300886332 from within Australia, 0800525366 from within New Zealand, 18006071399 from within North America, 0800982308
from within South Africa, 0362731786 from within Japan, 08452575212 from inside the UK or +44289873305 for the rest of the world. A
Topdeck representative will be on hand to help.
* Please note our Customer Service team may be closed over bank holidays. Please check out www.topdeck.travel/abouttopdeck/contact-us over these times.
What to Bring
We recommend soft bags, suitcases or frameless backpacks, plus a small day pack or carry bag. No external framed bags please, as they
damage other bags on the coach. Please limit your luggage to a maximum of 20kg. Luggage must not exceed dimensions of 70cm in height,
45cm in width and 25cm in depth. Only one piece of luggage is allowed.
Please note that due to space and weight restrictions on our coaches, passengers with too much luggage on departure morning may be told
that they cannot take their entire luggage with them. Luggage storage facilities are usually available at the departure point, if they are not
available you will have to make your own arrangements to have it stored or shipped home. Any luggage left behind will be at your own risk
and you will be required to pay any costs incurred.
Sleeping Bags
A sleeping bag will not be required for your trip.
Suggested Packing List
The golden rule is to travel as light as you can. Only bring what you really need and leave plenty of space for things you might want to buy.
Don't forget you will have to carry your bag around yourself before and after the trip, as well as in and out of where you’re staying while on
your trip!
The following is a suggested clothing list only, based on our experience:
1 pair of comfortable walking shoes
1 pair of smart casual shoes
1 pair thongs/jandals/flip-flops
2 pairs jeans/trousers
2 pairs shorts/skirts
4 shirts/t-shirts
2 sweaters/jumpers
Smart casual evening wear
1 rainproof jacket
1 warm jacket
Underwear and socks!
Other things to pack:
Swimwear
Towel
Toiletries
Hat and Sunscreen
Basic medical kit (including plasters, aspirin etc.)
Washing powder
Insect repellent
Conversion plug
Optionals to consider:
Sewing kit
Pillow case
Torch
Travel pillow
Please note: entry into some religious sites, such as cathedrals and mosques, requires clothing to cover the knees, chest and shoulders.
Final Checklist
Passport (with visas if required!)
Airline tickets (where applicable)
Insurance Policy (you must bring these details with you)
Camera; batteries; chargers; conversion plug
That’s it – you’re now ready for your trip of a lifetime! If you have any further questions feel free to give our team a shout at any time. Happy
travels!